by Lenawee County, MI – A Michigan man, John Skelton, 53, who was nearing the end of a prison sentence for false imprisonment of his three young sons, now faces murder charges after a shocking investigation spanning 15 years. Authorities allege that Skelton killed his three sons — Andrew, 9, Alexander, 7, and Tanner, 5 — and concealed their deaths following a troubling disappearance in 2010.
The case dates back to Thanksgiving 2010, when Skelton allegedly refused to return his children to his ex-wife, Tanya Zuvers, after the holiday. He told multiple stories about the boys’ whereabouts, including claims that he had placed them in an “underground sanctuary” under the care of strangers. Months later, the boys were legally declared deceased, but until now, Skelton had never been formally charged with their deaths.
Alleged Deception and Concealment
According to court documents, Skelton has consistently misled authorities since the boys went missing. Investigators say that the alleged sanctuary he described does not exist. Skelton is accused of deliberately hiding the bodies to prevent discovery of the truth.
An affidavit also revealed that in November 2010, Skelton searched online for methods to harm people shortly before the boys disappeared. When Zuvers attempted to retrieve her children after Thanksgiving, they were gone. During this time, Skelton reportedly attempted suicide, resulting in hospitalization.
Police further noted that Zuvers had requested to end her marriage two months prior and sought sole custody of the children.
Current Status and Legal Proceedings
Skelton is currently held at the Lenawee County Jail on $60 million bond. The charges include three counts of open murder and tampering with evidence.
The new charges were announced on November 12, just weeks before Skelton’s scheduled release from prison for false imprisonment, a conviction obtained in 2011 about a year after his sons vanished. Authorities had interviewed him in prison earlier this month, hoping he would provide information to locate the boys, but he was reportedly uncooperative.
Skelton’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 24, as the investigation continues. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed all details of the new evidence but stress that Skelton made conscious efforts to conceal the children’s deaths.
Community Shock and Concern
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting years of unanswered questions and bringing renewed attention to parental abduction and child safety issues.
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